2010 World Cup
A quick round up of the mid-week internationals – and then we can get back to the proper football.
Glen Johnson played for all 90 minutes as England played their final World Cup group game at Wembley. England beat Belarus 3-0 with former red Peter Crouch on target twice.
Spain won their 10th consecutive match. Beating Bosnia away 5-2. Three goals were scored in the last 3 minutes of the game. Albert Riera was the only red involved playing the full game. Fernando Torres had been ruled out by Spain’s medical staff prior to the game – however he was on the bench – although he wasn’t brought on.
Ukraine demolished Andorra 6-0 to ensure they go in to the World Cup play-off’s. Andriy Voronin however didn’t even make the 18 man team. His manager said he wasn’t 100% fit. The Ukraine media has reported an argument between Liverpool’s forward and the national coach.
Daniel Agger played the full game for Denmark who were defeated 1-0 at home by Hungary. It was the Danes first defeat in qualifying. Denmark are already through to the World Cup.
Joy for Martin Skrtel. He missed Slovakia’s 1-0 win away at Poland due to a suspension but the victory ensured they won the group and gain automatic qualification for the World Cup.
Another side who will go in to the World Cup qualifiers are Greece. Sotirios Kyrgiakos went off just before half time with what appeared to be a serious injury – more information tomorrow. But that means bad news for Israel captain Yossi Benayoun who so nearly helped his country to the World Cup. Their draw against Switzerland tonight and Greece’s victory means they miss out on a place in South Africa. Maybe Philipp Degen may perform a miraculous recovery now in time to join his fellow Swiss players?
Lucas played the full game in central midfield for Brazil. The game finished 0-0 but Brazil are already confirmed as group winners and are going to South Africa.
Finally there was joy for Argentina captain Javier Mascherano who saw his side take all three points in Uruguay. Their 1-0 win means they automatically qualify for the World Cup. Emiliano Insua, who wasn’t in the 18 this time, is also a rising talent in the squad.
